Since the 1980s, non-skilled workers have been entering Japan legally in increasing numbers. Despite their growing presence in Japan, foreign workers often encounter discrimination. The roots of this discrimination run deep among many political leaders in Japan. Nonetheless there is a sizable number of Japanese at the grassroots level who promote a multicultural Japan and support foreign workers. Join us for Dr. Harumi Befu’s analysis of life for foreign workers in Japan, and how current conditions indicate positive changes ahead in Japan’s future.

Dr. Harumi Befu is Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Stanford University. Dr. Befu holds a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin. Fieldwork in northern Japan led to his interest in the nature of integration of rural communities with the larger society. His current research is on the social and cultural aspects of Japan’s globalization, both external and internal; his most recent project has been an analysis of Japan’s national and cultural identity.

6:00 pm Registration
6:30-8:00 pm Program

Free and open to the public.

This is a lecture event hosted by the Japan Society of Northern California co-sponsored by the Japanese American National Library. We kindly request your RSVP by Friday, September 11, 2009.